Picture Books
It’s possible to buy signed copies of the books on this page from my local bookshop, by clicking on the “Buy a signed copy” link. My books on this page are grouped by their illustrators. Click an example cover or a name to see more, or just scroll down.
List of Picture Books (arranged in alphabetical order of illustrator)
Spinderella
illustrated by Sebastien Braun
Egmont,
isbn 978-1405282727
Spinderella the spider has a passion for football. She tries to play a match with her brothers and sisters but she doesn’t know how many spiders should be on each team. Even worse, she can’t count the goals. Luckily for Spinderella, her Hairy Godmother has a plan . . .
“Spinderella is a sweet book for both boys and girls, combining numbers with topics of interest to three to five year-olds - creepy crawlies, magic
fairies and football.”
Mummy in the City
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The Everywhere Bear
illustrated by Rebecca Cobb
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447280743
The Everywhere Bear has a home on a shelf
But he doesn't spend very much time by himself,
For each boy and girl in the class is a friend
And he goes home with one of them every weekend.
The Everywhere Bear has a wonderful time with the children in Class One, but one day he gets more than he bargained for when he falls unnoticed from a backpack and embarks on his own big adventure.
”… this latest book’s bright and boisterous depiction of school, and the devotion of little ones to their teachers, may just leave you fuzzy with nostalgia." Observer, Children's Book of the Week
"Another brilliant picture book from this fabulous duo." Angels & Urchins
"A perfect read aloud" Books For Keeps
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There's an Owl in my Towel
illustrated by Rebecca Cobb
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447251804
It's tricky to have breakfast when there's a mole in your bowl! A baby's every activity is thwarted by a variety of surprising animals. But who wouldn't be happy to find a ted in their bed?
A lift-the-flap book for babies with an online song to accompany it.
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It's a Little Baby
illustrated by Rebecca Cobb
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447251811
Somebody’s hiding. I wonder who.
It’s a little baby and she’s peeping at you.
Lift the flaps and find the babies. Sing the song and do the actions. A book for babies with an online song to accompany it.
“With a rhyming text by Gruffalo creator Julia Donaldson that is just made for reading (or singing) aloud, and illustrations by one of our most talented picture book artists, this superb board book has all the makings of a classic. … It takes extraordinary skill to create a text so short, simple and yet so effective, and Rebecca Cobb paints the babies with a delicacy that perfectly captures every move and expression. Simply wonderful.” Andrea Reece, LoveReading4Kids
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The Paper Dolls
illustrated by Rebecca Cobb
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447220145
A string of paper dolls go on a fantastical adventure through the house and out into the garden. They soon escape the clutches of the toy dinosaur and the snapping jaws of the oven-glove crocodile, but then a very real pair of scissors threatens...
Did you know that The Paper Dolls broke a Guinness World Record? Find out more here: http://www.panmacmillan.com/paperdollsworldrecord
There is also a Book and CD edition with Lauren Laverne
Shortlisted for the Sheffield Book Awards 2013, the Scottish Children’s Book Awards 2014, the Kate Greenaway Medal 2014 and the Independent Booksellers Week Picture Book Award 2014
"A picturebook that seems simple but gets richer every time you look at it ...... Cobb’s illustrations capture the joy of childhood; between them she and the Children’s Laureate have made a book that works like magic." The Sunday Times
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The Teeny Weeny Genie
illustrated by Anna Currey
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509843602
Old Macdonald is cleaning out his farmhouse kitchen when he comes across a dusty old teapot. And no one could be more surprised when a wish-granting genie pops out of the spout. Old Macdonald wishes for a wife, who wishes for a baby. A baby who wishes for a dog, who wishes for a cat, who wishes for some mice! It doesn't take long before the farmyard starts getting very busy, and VERY noisy! Will the genie ever get a break from granting wishes, and find some peace? If only there was someone who could grant him a wish...
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One Ted Falls Out of Bed
illustrated by Anna Currey
Macmillan,
isbn 978-01447266143
This is perhaps the picture book text which I feel most proud of, as I’d always wanted to write a simple yet exciting rhyming adventure which would also be a sort of counting book. I wrote it in 2000 but it was hard to find the right illustrator. It was worth waiting for Anna Currey, though – her pictures are so warm and humorous and perfectly capture the atmosphere of the night-time bedroom, and her teddy bear is adorable.
There is also a board book version, and a Book and CD edition , with Saskia Wickham .
"Another little miracle from Julia Donaldson… it has the robust feel of a classic." The Bookseller
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Rosie's Hat
Illustrated by Anna Currey
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447266129
One little girl, one smart hat, a sudden gust of wind . . . and we're off on a whole hatful of adventures!
A rhyming story with sound effects for children to join in with.
“The simple rhyming text is perfect for younger children whilst the older child will enjoy the adventure and twist to the tale.” Children's Buyers Guide
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Fly, Pigeon, Fly
(jointly with John Henderson)
Illustrated by Thomas Docherty
Little Tiger,
isbn 978-1845061876
John Henderson was one of my adult students when I was writer in residence in Easterhouse, Glasgow, and this story is based on a true event from John’s childhood.
When a boy finds a young pigeon, half-starved, in a derelict warehouse in Glasgow, he takes the bird home, looks after him and teaches him to fly. Da says that Percy the pigeon should be set free but the boy wants him to stay for ever . . .
“A warm and thoughtful story that treats difficult issues with tact and subtlety” The Guardian
“one of those books you want to press into the hands of passers-by, whatever their age” The Herald
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Wake Up Do, Lydia Lou
illustrated by Karen George
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447209577
A little ghost tries to give Lydia Lou a scare . . . but he can't even wake her up. So he fetches his noisy animal friends to help: Mew! Moo! Too-whit too-whoo! Wake up do, Lydia Lou! Will anything ever wake her? A gentle and playful bedtime read full of fun sounds for children to join in with.
"Best-selling Julia Donaldson delights as always in this entertaining bedtime story.” LoveReading4Kids
“A delightful book which is likely to become a firm favourite with many small children.” The Bookbag
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Freddie and the Fairy
illustrated by Karen George
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0330511186
Freddie is desperate for a pet, so when he rescues Bessie-Belle and she offers to grant his wishes he knows just what to ask for. The only problem is that Bessie-Belle can't hear very well, and Freddie tends to mumble. Whatever can they do? Luckily the Fairy Queen is on hand to explain...
“A delightful tale full of Julia Donaldson’s trademark rhyme and wit, with a subtle message about hearing impairments" My child and me
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Cave Baby
illustrated by Emily Gravett
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0330522762
A hairy mammoth takes a cheeky little baby on a thrilling ride through a moonlit landscape populated by a sabre-toothed tiger, a leaping hare, a laughing hyena and even, just maybe, by a big brown bear . . . But where are they going? And what has it to do with the baby’s scribblings on the cave wall?
There is a book and CD edition with Imelda Staunton
See Malcolm and me singing the Cave Baby song
“An exuberant, rhyming text matched by equally lively illustrations makes this a romp of a bedtime story.” The Guardian
“an appealing and sensitive fable about the uses of creativity and dreams.” The Telegraph
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Animalphabet
illustrated by Sharon King-Chai
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509801640
An alphabet of animals with fold out flaps and shaped pages, written as a rhyming guessing game. Animalphabet was a winner in the 2018 Chen Bochui International Children's Literature Awards.
"Small children will love this A to Z of animals with its intricate paper cuts"
Good Housekeeping
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What the Ladybird Heard at the Seaside
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978–1529023145
The fourth book in the What the Ladybird Heard series. The clever little ladybird is off on a trip to the seaside, but those two bad men, Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len, are there too and they're up to their wicked ways again. This time they're planning to steal the mermaid's long, luscious hair and sell it to a famous star . . . luckily, the crime-busting ladybird has another cunning plan to stop the thieves.
"An instant classic" Baby Magazine
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The Girl, the Bear and the Magic Shoes
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978–1447275978
Josephine has some new running shoes. But will they be able to save her from a bear?
"With... endearing humour and addictive wordplay, this is a superbly packaged book for sharing at school, home or nursery" Lancashire Evening Post
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What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978–1509837335
The third book about the detective Ladybird. This time she’s at the zoo instead of the farm, and the thieves are planning to steal the Queen’s crown, so she needs to think of an extra cunning plan.
What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday won Hearst UK Magazines' Big Book Children's Award 2018.
"A terrific and witty adventure" The Guardian
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What the Ladybird Heard Next
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862603
Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len decide to steal the fat red hen. They have a cunning plan – but the clever little ladybird has a better one…
ladybirdThere is also a book and CD edition with Alexander Armstrong and a play version with tips for staging our own production.
“Donaldson’s trademark rhyming couplets bounce along and are perfectly complemented by Lydia Monks’s bright and sparkly illustrations.” Mail on Sunday
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Princess Mirror-Belle and the Dragon Pox
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862658
Ellen gets a big shock when her double appears out of the bathroom mirror, but Mirror-Belle is a double with a difference! She is a princess, and a mischievous one at that. She is sure that Ellen's chicken pox is actually dragon pox - and she is full of ideas about how to make the spots disappear.
there is a book and CD edition with Lauren Laverne
“A marvellous flight of fancy” Teach Primary
“A wonderful fairy-story romp for girls, it is very refreshing to see girls for a change, in a story, making an absolute mess and turning a bathroom topsy-turvy… a great introduction to independent reading” The School Librarian
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Sugarlump and the Unicorn
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862665
When Sugarlump the rocking horse wishes to see the world, a magical unicorn with a silver horn and sparkling blue eyes turns him into a real horse. But after trotting around the farm, galloping around a racetrack and even dancing at the circus, Sugarlump learns to be careful what he wishes for and realises how much he misses the children he left behind. Luckily the unicorn has one more wish to grant . . .
There is a book and CD edition with Joanna Page
Shortlisted for the new Independent Booksellers Week Picture Book Award (2014).
“an absolute delight to read aloud” Daily Mail
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The Singing Mermaid
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862733
The singing mermaid is tempted away from her home shores to join the circus. The audiences love her but the poor mermaid, kept in a tank by the wicked circus owner Sam Sly, soon longs to return to the freedom of the sea. Will she ever escape?
There is a book and CD edition with Lauren Laverne
"Donaldson's reliably entertaining rhymes and Monks's brilliantly bold illustrations - plus a sprinkling of sparking glitter - add up to a delightful rhyming adventure for pre-schoolers" Daily Mail
"This is a lovely story, gently told, about trust, betrayal, friendship and courage. Like the best children's books it invites children to experience the story in ways that appeal to them" The Guardian
Shortlisted for new Independent Booksellers Week Picture Book Award (2014)
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The Rhyming Rabbit
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862726
Poor old Rhyming Rabbit is feeling lonely and left out. None of his fellow rabbits appreciate his carefully thought-out poems. And as for the other woodland animals? They just tell him to be quiet! Then one starry night he meets someone who shares his enthusiasm for poetry ...
There is a book and CD edition with David Tennant"Picture book perfection" Sunday Telegraph
"Glittery and witty" Daily Telegraph
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What the Ladybird Heard
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862566
Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: she has a plan of her own.
There is also a sound book, a Let’s Read edition, a read and play farm, a Book and CD edition, with Alexander Armstrong and a play version with tips for staging your own production.
Winner of the Stockport Schools Book awards and the Royal Mail book awards
You can see me acting out the story as part of an author’s live webcast on the Scottish Booktrust site
Click to see Malcolm and me sing What the Ladybird Heard
“Classic Julia Donaldson rhyming text makes this farmyard tale bound along” The Bookseller
“... a terrific and witty adventure told in Julia Donaldson’s trademark rhyming couplets. Lydia Monks’ original and stylised farmyard fits the story perfectly.” The Guardian
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The Princess and the Wizard
illustrated by Lydia Monks
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862719
A fairy story about colours
By changing her colour and changing her shape
The princess may try seven times to escape.
But each time Princess Eliza changes – into a blue fish, a yellow chick, a red fox or a black cat – the wicked finds her and sets her another horrible task. Will this plucky princess be able to outwit him and escape back to the palace in time to cut her birthday cake?
There is also a Big Book, a sound book, a Let's Read edition and a book and CD edition, with Imelda Staunton
"A sparkly princess and an equally sparkly, though somewhat darker, wizard battle it out across some glorious colour spreads. . . an exceptionally pleasing replay of a familiar story” – The Guardian
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Sharing a Shell
illustrated by Lydia Monks, with glitter on every page
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509862702
Look! A crab, a crab with no shell,
Running along by the sea . . .
When the little hermit crab finds a shiny new shell he doesn’t want to share it – not with a blobby purple anemone and a tickly bristleworm. Join Crab, Blob and Brush in the rock pool for a sparkly story of sea, shells and friendship.
There is also a board book edition, a Big Book version, a Book and CD edition and and a Book and CD edition with Julian Clary.
Click to see Julia and Malcolm sing the Sharing a Shell song
"sunny glittery story…. clear characterful pictures and jolly verse for reading out loud" The Independent
"Bright, bold and fun." Publishing News (Book of the Month)
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The Hospital Dog
illustrated by Sara Ogilvie
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509868315
Here is a dog, a Dalmatian called Dot, is she quite ordinary? NO, SHE'S NOT! After their breakfast and a swim in the sea, Dot and her owner Rose jump on the bus to the hospital. Dot loves visiting the children of Wallaby Ward and they're always pleased to see her too; from a crying baby to a bored teenager - a pat, a stroke and a cuddle with Dot cheers everyone up. But the work of the hospital dog doesn't stop there and when one of her patients is in trouble, it's up to Dot to save the day!
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The Detective Dog
illustrated by Sara Ogilvie
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509801602
There once was a dog with a keen sense of smell.
She was known far and wide as Detective Dog Nell.
Peter's dog Nell has an amazing sense of smell. Whether it's finding a lost shoe or discovering who did a poo on the new gravel path, her ever-sniffing nose is always hard at work. So when the books at Peter’s school have disappeared one morning, Detective Dog Nell is ready to sniff out the culprit!
The Detective Dog won the Books Are My Bag Children's Award.
"To look at, read aloud and listen to, this book is a delight." The Sunday Times, Children’s Book of the Week
"A glorious collaboration by a master of the art and a rising star… Donaldson sets out the rhyming story with characteristic panache, perfectly complemented by Ogilvie’s bright and busy artwork." The Guardian
"A fun-filled adventure… all recounted in Donaldson’s perfectly pitched rhyme and illustrated with joyful brio by Sara Ogilvie." The Daily Mail
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The Giant Jumperee
illustrated by Helen Oxenbury
Puffin,
isbn 978-0241330203
Rabbit was hopping home one day when he heard a loud voice coming from inside his burrow.
"I'M THE GIANT JUMPEREE
AND I'M SCARY AS CAN BE!"
When Rabbit's friends Cat, Bear and Elephant come to help they are each scared away in turn by the mysterious voice.
He can squash you like a flea
He will sting you like a bee
And he's taller than a tree!
But who is the Giant Jumperee?
“The prose is succinct, suspenseful and perfectly constructed . . . Can there be any young child who would not enjoy this?” Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times Children’s Book of the Week
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The Go-Away Bird
illustrated by Catherine Rayner
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509843572
The Go-Away bird sat up in her nest, with her fine grey wings and her fine grey crest.
One by one, the other birds fly into her tree, wanting to talk or to play, but the Go-Away bird just shakes her head and sends them all away. But then the dangerous Get-You bird comes along, and she soon realizes that she might need some friends after all.
"A lovely story and gorgeous illustrations that will bear repeated bedtime readings" iNews
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Night Monkey Day Monkey
illustrated by Lucy Richards
Egmont,
isbn 978-0749748937
“Hey!” said Day Monkey. “There’s a banana!
How can it manage to fly?”
Night Monkey laughed and said, “Don’t be daft,
That banana’s the moon in the sky.”
Night Monkey and Day Monkey’s worlds are as different as . . . night and day! But in laughing at each other’s misunderstandings they learn to be the best of friends.
There is also a board book and an audio edition with Imelda Staunton, including book and CD with story, games and songs.
"A charmingly rhythmic poem… a clever way of reassuring small children about night-time." The Evening Standard
"Reassuring and funny, this is ideal bedtime reading for bright children." The Independent on Sunday.
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The Cook and the King
illustrated by David Roberts
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509813780
The hungry king needs a new cook, but will Wobbly Bob be able to make his favourite dish?
“A hilarious role reversal comedy.” The Observer
“A lovely rhyming tale of self-sufficiency and confidence, illustrated with humour and brio.” Daily Mail
“A comical rhyming tale with elegant images.” The Sunday Times Culture
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The Flying Bath
illustrated by David Roberts
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447277118
When everyone has left the house in the morning, the bath toys spring into action and head off on exciting adventures in their magical flying bath! From giving a muddy piglet a shower to putting out a fire for a frightened baboon, they have water at the ready for any emergency - but they're always home for the children's bath-time at the end of the day.
“This delightful book will make a splash long before bath time arrives.” Lancashire Evening Post
Jack and the Flumflum Tree
illustrated by David Roberts
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0330504065
Jack’s Granny is sick with a bad case of the moozles! And the only cure is the fruit of the fantastic flumflum tree which grows on the faraway Isle of Blowyernose. It’s a perilous journey, but Jack bravely sets sail, with a motley crew of only three – and a large patchwork sack that Granny has filled with an odd assortment of items from chewing-gum to tent pegs. But what use will they be against hungry sharks, a leaky boat and a thieving monkey . . .?
There is a book and CD edition with David Tennant.
Jack and the Flumflum Tree won the 2012 Oldham Schools' Book Awards and was shortlisted for the Scottish Children’s Book Awards.
Click to watch a performance of the Jack and the Flumflum Tree song
"There are hints of Edward Lear’s verse in this funny, appealing and imaginative picture book. Julia Donaldson’s engaging text is perfectly accompanied by beautiful and quirky illustrations by David Roberts" Booktrust
"The rhythmic refrain . . . had my twin baby boys clapping their hands in merriment, and the gleeful-looking characters help the story deal with courage and altruism in the lightest of ways" Daily Telegraph
The Troll
illustrated by David Roberts
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0230017948
All the Troll wants is to catch a goat – but when a string of other creatures trip-trap over his bridge instead, he’s stuck with boring old fish for supper. Bother!
Meanwhile, Hank Chief and his pirate crew love fish – but without a decent recipe or cook between them, their slimy supper is revolting. If only they could find the buried treasure and afford to pay a ship’s cook – but it seems they’ve sailed to the wrong island. Again. Watch the fun unfold as these two worlds collide.
There is also a book and CD edition with Alex Jennings
Winner of the Stockport Schools Book Awards
“An ingenious, lively creation, guaranteed not to get anybody's goat.” The Observer
Tyrannosaurus Drip
illustrated by David Roberts
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0230015500
Whoever heard of a vegetarian T Rex? When a baby Duckbill dinosaur ends up in the Tyrannosaurus nest, he feels very out of place, and his gruesome new family nickname him Drip. But this little dinosaur is not as weedy as he looks. In fact, he's a real hero!
There is also a Let's Read edition and a Book and CD edition with Imelda Staunton
There is also a play version for a whole class to act out.
Click to see Julia and Malcolm sing the Tyrannosaurus Drip song
"A honking, hooting success" The Bookseller
“The roaring, hooting, monster success of the season” The Times
“rollicks along very engrossingly” Independent
“Comic, dynamic and charming” Sunday Times
The Smeds and the Smoos
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407188898
"A book for our time" BBC Radio 4
"Blast off with the most exciting book yet from the creator of 'The Gruffalo'. Get ready for a wild and wonderful journey through space in a book that is perfect for reading together." The Sun
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The Gruffalo
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509804757
A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood.
A fox saw the mouse and the mouse looked good.
Walk further into the deep dark wood, and discover what happens when the quick-thinking mouse comes face to face with an owl, a snake and a hungry gruffalo . . .
"a modern classic" The Observer
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The Gruffalo won the Smarties prize, the Blue Peter prize for Best Book to Read Aloud and the Experian Big Three award. The audio version voiced by Imelda Staunton, (which also includes The Gruffalo song) won the Spoken Book Award for Best Children’s Audio.
The book has sold about 11.5 million copies and there are 84 foreign languages.
The Gruffalo has even appeared on Broadway, in the Tall Stories play based on the book, which frequently tours the UK. (For performing details visit, www.tallstories.org.uk.)
The animation of the story, produced by Magic Light, has won several awards and was nominated for a Bafta and an Oscar.
There are all sorts of different formats, gift and anniversary editions, activity and novelty books, plus an annual and a series of “My First Gruffalo”. My own favourites among these “spin-offs” are the following:
The Gruffalo Pop-up Theatre Book and the four Gruffalo Explorers Books.
The Gruffalo has been translated into British sign language and you can
watch it by going to www.mybslbooks.com.
The Gruffalo has his very own site at www.gruffalo.com! Here you can check out my diary, play games and see Julia and Malcolm singing some of their songs.
The Gruffalo’s Child
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509804764
One snowy night when the Gruffalo snored
The Gruffalo’s Child was feeling bored.
The Gruffalo’s Child was feeling brave
So she tiptoed out of the gruffalo cave . . .
I had been resisting the idea of writing a sequel to The Gruffalo until I began to wonder how the Gruffalo would feel about the mouse five years later. Supposing in the Gruffalo’s mind he had become the Big Bad Mouse, to be avoided by all gruffalos big and small, what then?
The Gruffalo’s Child won the W.H. Smith Children’s Book of the Year award at the 2005 British Book Awards. It was also shortlisted for the Red House Childrens’ Book Award.
There is also a Gruffalo’s Child board book, Big Book, a 10th anniversary edition with some of Axel Sheffler’s original sketches, a Let's Read edition, a sound book and an audio version with Imelda Staunton.
There is also an edition translated into Scots by James Robertson, called The Gruffalo’s Wean.
The Tall Stories play based on the book frequently tours the UK. For performing details visit, www.tallstories.org.uk. The animation of the story, produced my Magic Light, was shown on BBC1 on Christmas day 2011.
Click here to see Julia and Malolm singing The Gruffalo's Child Song
"A variation on the relationship between the canny mouse and the gentle but huge and ugly Gruffalo, so deliciously played out in The Gruffalo, is wittily recreated in this welcome encore." The Guardian
"The Gruffalo’s Child achieves the impossible - an even more endearing, witty and delightful book than its parent." The Bookseller
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The Ugly Five
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407184630
We’re the ugly five, we’re the ugly five.
Everyone flees when they see us arrive.
"Donaldson's exuberant verse and Scheffler's strong, inimitable style are splendidly suited to these underrated, cheerful grotesques, and evoke the love between parents and children of every species." The Guardian
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Zog and the Flying Doctors
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407173504
Meet the Flying Doctors: Princess Pearl, Sir Gadabout and, of course, their trusty 'air ambulance', Zog the dragon, as they fly around the country, tending to a sunburnt mermaid, a distressed unicorn, and even a sneezy lion.
“Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are the Lennon and McCartney of children’s publishing” Sunday Times
“From Donaldson and Scheffler - the undisputed dream team of children’s picture books - comes a sequel to Zog […] Another brilliantly witty and perfectly rhyming Donaldson classic with a feminist twist.” Huffington Post
“Donaldson’s characteristic jaunty rhyme is perfectly paced and no one illustrates her words better than Scheffler” Daily Mail
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The Scarecrows' Wedding
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407170749
Two scarecrows, Betty O'Barley and Harry O'Hay, are planning the perfect wedding. But wicked scarecrow, Reginald Rake, has other ideas and almost ruins their special day. Harry must become a hero before he and Betty can have the wedding of their dreams.
There is also a book and CD edition with Imelda Staunton
“The perfect marriage of rhyme and pictures … the delightful repetition and gentle humour are matched with wonderfully detailed illustrations that reveal more on each reading. A joy from start to finish.” The Daily Mail
“Fabulous rhymes that are a joy to read out, wowey illustrations and winks to the grown-ups” The Times
“There’s huge warmth in every word, every drawing… An irresistible delight” Financial Times
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Superworm
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407170725
Meet the wriggliest, squiggliest superhero in the world!
Never fear! Superworm is here – and he’s wiggling to the rescue! He can be a lasso, a fishing-line, even a skipping-rope. But who will rescue Superworm when he falls prey to a wicked Wizard Lizard? Luckily, all of his insect friends have a cunning plan ...
Winner of the German Buxterhuder Kälbchen Picture Book Prize 2013 and winner of the Red House Children’s Book Award for Younger Children 2014.
There is also an Early Readers Edition and a book and CD edition with Imelda Staunton
“The energetic worm will keep audiences squirming with pleasure” The Observer
“A word lover’s delight in rousing, rhyming verse” The New York Times
“It’s the sheer imaginative tour de force of Donaldson’s jaunty rhyming narrative and Scheffler’s brilliantly funny illustrations that will have this book wriggling into your affections. Another winner” The Herald
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The Highway Rat
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407170732
Give me your buns and your biscuits!
Give me your chocolate éclairs!
For I am the Rat of the highway,
and the Rat Thief never shares!
Life is not safe for the other animals, as the villainous Highway Rat gallops along the highway, stealing their food: clover from a rabbit, nuts from a squirrel - he even steals his own horse's hay. Will he finally meet his comeuppance, in the form of a cunning duck?
There is a board book and a book and CD edition with Imelda Staunton
"Donaldson’s ear for rhyme is unequalled, and Scheffler’s busy, funny illustrations make this ideal for reading aloud with lots of voices and chances to join in” Daily Mail
“Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are both on top form here” The Telegraph
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Zog
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407170763
Zog is the keenest dragon in school. He’s also the most accident-prone, getting into one scrape after another as he learns to roar and fly and breathe fire. But who is the mysterious little girl that keeps coming to his aid? And can she really help with his toughest test: capturing a princess?
Zog won the Galaxy Book Award in 2010 and the Oxfordshire Book Award 2011.
There is a board book and a Book and CD edition with Imelda Staunton
Click to see the Flying Doctors song
"The Gruffalo duo do it again with this fable about a dragon, a knight and a damsel in distress, none of them the stock characters we know from fairytale. Donaldson’s rhymes and Scheffler’s illustrations mesh sublimely." Financial Times
"The Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler dream team returns with the tale of Zog, a keen yet accident-prone dragon… Look out for cameos from The Gruffalo in Scheffler’s rich illustrations." Independent on Sunday
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Tabby McTat
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407170701
Tabby McTat is a busker’s cat. He loves his life with Fred, singing along as people throw coins in their hat. Then one day Fred has an accident and the two are separated. How will they every find each other again? A touching story of friendship, loyalty, singing - and kittens!
There is an Early Reader edition and a book and CD edition with Imelda Staunton
“The latest sure-fire bestseller from Julia & Axel is the story of Tabby McTat the busker’s cat. Can you feel the text tripping from your tongue already? Julia’s trademark rhythmic verse will entertain parent and child alike while Axel’s illustrations provide something to pore over time and time again.” The Bookseller
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Stick Man
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407170718
Stick Man lives in the family tree With his Stick Lady Love and their stick children three
…. But the world is a dangerous place for a Stick Man. A dog wants to play with him. A swan builds her nest with him. He even ends up on a fire! Will he ever get back to the family tree?
There is a board book, an Early Readers edition, a Book and CD edition and an audio edition, with Imelda Staunton. The Scamp play based on the book frequently tours the UK. For performing details visit www.scamptheatre.com
An irresistibly jaunty picture book, spiced with the danger familiar to all those who love The Gruffalo. Julia Donaldson’s rhyming text brings the tale to a satisfying conclusion.” The Guardian
“Another cracker of a book. Donaldson’s rhymes bound along, like vintage Dr Seuss, while Scheffler’s slyly witty illustrations are a pleasure. Stick Man’s dogged insistence on his own identity will resonate with children and grown-ups alike.” Financial Times
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Tiddler
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Alison Green Books,
isbn 978-1407170756
Tiddler is a little fish who tells the tallest tales in the ocean. But did he really ride a seahorse? Did he really meet a mermaid? And what about the scariest story of them all – the one about the fishermen and the net?
There is a board book, an Early Readers edition, a Book and CD edition and an audio edition with Imelda Staunton.
There is also a play version for a whole class to act out.
There is a Scamp play based on Tiddler, along with A Squash and a Squeeze, Monkey Puzzle and The Smartest Giant in Town. The play is called Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales and it frequently tours the UK. For performing details visit www.scamptheatre.com
Shortlisted for the 2009 Independent Booksellers' Award
“A pleasing romp” The Guardian
“Picture book perfection” Independent on Sunday
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Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509812486
A book-within-a-book-within-a-book-within-a-book . . . complete with pirates, ghosts, knights and aliens.
There is also a board book, a Big Book version and an audio edition with Imelda Staunton and Steven Pacey.
Shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Awards and for the Scottish Royal Mail Book Awards.
“Younger readers will delight in the drama of Donaldson’s vivacious rhyming text and the panache of Scheffler’s illustrations.” Guardian
“a glorious celebration of books and reading” Scotsman
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The Snail and the Whale
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509812523
The sea snail slithered all over the rock
And gazed at the sea and the ships in the dock.
And as she gazed she sniffed and sighed.
“The sea is deep and the world is wide!
How I long to sail”
Said the tiny snail.
This is probably my favourite of all the books I have written for Axel Scheffler to illustrate, perhaps because I feel I have captured something of the soulful whimsy of the Edward Lear poems I enjoyed as a child.
There is also a board book, a Big Book version, a Let's Read edition, a 15th anniversary edition and an audio edition with Imelda Staunton.
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The Snail and the Whale has been translated into British sign language and you can watch it by going to www.mybslbooks.com.
The Snail and the Whale won the 2004 Early Years award for the best pre-school book, the 2005 Blue Peter award for Best Book to Read Aloud, and the 2007 Giverny award for Best Science Picture Book. The audio version, which includes The Snail and the Whale song, won the Spoken Book gold award for best audio for 6 and under.
"Bold and brilliant, wise and wacky." The Times
"A joy to read aloud" The Guardian
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The Smartest Giant in Town
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509812530
George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-size clothes he decides it’s time for a new look. But on his way home he meets various animals who desperately need his help . . . and his clothes!
There is also a board book, a Big Book version and an audio edition with Imelda Staunton and Steven Pacey.
The Smartest Giant in Town features in a Scamp play called Tiddler and other Terrific Tales which frequently tours the UK. For performing details visit www.scamptheatre.com
The book was shortlisted for the Blue Peter, Red House, Sheffield and Portsmouth book awards. The audio version, which includes George’s song, won the Spoken Book gold award for best audio for 6 and under.
"My absolute favourite of this year’s picture books… Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are a combination made in heaven." The Independent on Sunday.
"Who could resist?" The Sunday Times
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Room on the Broom
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509804771
How the cat purred and how the witch grinned
As they sat on their broomstick and flew through the wind.
But how many passengers will one broomstick take? And what about the dragon who fancies “witch and chips” for tea?
There is also a board book, a Big Book, a sound book, A Let's Read edition, an interactive ebook as well as an audio edition with Josie Lawrence.
Room on the Broom has been translated into 22 languages including Scots and has won 6 book awards (Scottish, Sheffield, Stockport, Norfolk, Blue Peter and Mumsnet). The audio version, which includes the Room on the Broom song, won the Spoken Book Award for the best audio for 6 and under.
The animated film of Room on the Broom, produced by Magic Light, was shown on BBC TV at Christmas 2012. It was awarded the Crystal for Best TV Production at the Annecy Animation Festival 2013 and was nominated for an Oscar in 2014.
Room on the Broom has been translated into British sign language and you can watch it by going to www.mybslbooks.com.
The Tall Stories play based on the book frequently tours the UK. For performing details visit www.tallstories.org.uk.
"Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler have come up with another gem… we loved it." The Independent
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Monkey Puzzle
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509812493
“I’ve lost my mum!”
“Hush, little monkey, don’t you cry,
I’ll help you find her,” said Butterfly.
But somehow Butterfly keeps getting it wrong. Will Monkey ever find his mum?
As well as the book there is an audio edition with Imelda Staunton, including the Monkey Puzzle song, which won a silver award in the Spoken Book Awards. There is also a board book and a Big Book version.
Monkey Puzzle has been tranlated into British sign language and you can watch it by going to www.mybslbooks.com.
Monkey Puzzle features in a Scamp play called Tiddler and other Terrific Tales which frequently tours the UK. For performing details visit www.scamptheatre.com
Click to see me and Malcolm perform the Monkey Puzzle song with Maketon signing
"The really outstanding new animal picture book for children over two… it will make you all laugh over and over again" The Independent on Sunday
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A Squash and a Squeeze
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509804788
“Wise old man, won’t you help me, please?
My house is a squash and a squeeze.”
This was my first book, published in 1993, but it started its life earlier still, as a song which I wrote for children’s television. There is also a Big Book, a board book, a Braille edition, a Let’s Read edition, a 25th anniversary edition and audio version with Imelda Staunton, Steven Pacey and Julia which includes both story and song (I sing the part of the little old lady!)
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A Squash and a Squeeze features in a Scamp play called Tiddler and other Terrific Tales which frequently tours the UK. For performing details visit www.scamptheatre.com
Click to see me and Malcolm singing A squash and a Squeeze
"a bit of a classic… a goat on the bed and a cow on the table tapping out a jig? My readers collapsed in heaps, and then had to have it read again. And again." Vivian French in The Guardian
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Fox’s Socks
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447273400
Poor old Fox
Has lost his socks.
Readers can help him find them by lifting the flaps - but they will discover a lot of other clothes first. Printed on tough paper for young hands, this is one of the four books in the Acorn Wood series.
"Humorous lift-the-flap story book which uses clever rhyming text to introduce new words and encourage interaction." Prima Baby
Postman Bear
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447273424
A rhyming lift-the-flap story about a bear delivering birthday invitations to his friends. Part of the Acorn Wood series, printed on extra sturdy paper suitable for toddlers.
"A lovely story and a perfect length for children to share." Carousel
Rabbit’s Nap
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447273417
Rabbit’s feeling sleepy. She curls up in a chair.
Tap tap! Who’s there? Oh dear, it’s builder bear.
And then there’s the band of mice, the wood-chopping fox and the bell on Hedgehog’s bicycle – will Rabbit ever doze off?
One of the four lift-the-flap books in the Acorn Wood series, printed on tough paper for toddler’s hands.
Hide-and-Seek Pig
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447273431
In this rhyming story for toddlers, hen hides from pig and readers can lift the flaps to help him find her. One of the four Acorn Wood books printed on extra sturdy paper.
The Gruffalo Song and Other Songs
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0330448437
This book and CD contains nine songs, some based on three of my picture books (The Gruffalo, A Squash and a Squeeze, and Monkey Puzzle) and others with actions for children to join in. I sing them myself, with a great live band, and there is also an instrumental version, which provides an accompaniment for schools or families without an instrument-player. The book contains the words, guitar chords and the music arranged for piano.
Click to hear the Funny Face chorus
Click to see Malcolm and me singing Monkey Puzzle
Click to see Malcolm and me singing A Squash and a Squeeze
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Room on the Broom and Other Songs
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1405091015
A second collection of songs, including three based on my picture books Room on the Broom, The Smartest Giant in Town and The Snail and the Whale, and some action songs. The book is accompanied by a CD in which my husband Malcolm and I sing the songs accompanied by some brilliant musicians. The book contains the words, guitar chords and music arranged for piano.
Click to see us singing The Crow and the Fox
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The Gruffalo’s Child and Other Songs
illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447213741
A third collection of songs, three of them based on my picture books The Gruffalo’s Child, Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book and Stick Man and others with actions for children to join in at home or school. The book contains the words, guitar chords and music arranged for piano, and comes with a CD in which my husband Malcolm and I sing the songs accompanied by a live band. There is an instrumental-only version at the end.
Click to see us singing The Gruffalo's Child song
"Your little one will love this fun book about a witty take on follow my leader. The colourful illustrations zing off the page and your tot will lap up the repetitive sounds as the journey unfolds." Practical Parenting
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What The Jackdaw Saw
illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447280842
The jackdaw is flying into danger! The other animals are trying to warn him, but he can’t understand the signs they’re using.
I helped a group of deaf children write this story in a workshop run by the Life & Deaf Association. My share of the royalties for this book all go to this organisation.
There is a book and CD edition with Justin Fletcher
"A smattering of rhyme, creatures to identify and Sharratt’s amusing pictures make for a lively “eyes happy, feet tappy” book with great appeal for the very young." The Sunday Times Children’s Book of the Week
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Animal Music
illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447210955
There's harmony in the air when the animals get together for a concert with a difference! Koala's playing his flute, Badger's bashing away on the drums and Squirrel's strumming on the guitar. Sing and dance along – you’ve never seen a show like it!
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Goat Goes to Playgroup
illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447210948
There’s a commotion in the classroom as Goat and the other animals spend the day at playgroup. The musical instruments and the dressing up box are lots of fun, but – oh dear! – Goat gets into a muddle or two. A comforting story for any child starting at, or already attending, a playgroup.
There is also a board book.
"A brilliant book for any little ones off to nursery for the first time. Bright, bold illustrations and a rhyiming story tell the tale of Goat's first day at playgroup. Comforting and fun." Practical Parenting
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Toddle Waddle
illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0230706484
A wobbly toddler takes a walk and is soon joined by a joyful troop of human and animal friends. They wander happily along with a clip clop, hurry scurry, flip flop, toddle waddle, but where will they go and who else will they meet along the way?
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One Mole Digging a Hole
Illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-0230706477
Two snakes with garden rakes
Three bears picking pears .....
A counting book with a gardening theme
There is also a board book and a Book and CD edition
Click to see Malcolm and me singing One Mole Digging a Hole
"There are jokes aplenty: foxes tidily filling boxes - with tomatoes, of all unlikely things - and crows with a hose helpfully watering the cabbages. Sharratt's uncluttered use of the page gives room for the build up of the numbers to have a clear visual effect." The Guardian
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Chocolate Mousse for Greedy Goose
illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1405021906
“Chocolate mouse!” says greedy Goose.
“Don’t just grab it,” says angry Rabbit.
Good manners aren’t on the menu at this meal. Duck won’t eat his carrots, Moth is eating the cloth, and Sheep would rather sleep than wash the dishes.
A simple rhyming picture book with extra tough pages, suitable for toddlers.
There is also a board book, and a Book and CD edition , with Michael Fenton-Stevens
“A perfect marriage of words to pictures” The Independent on Sunday
“It's another winner” Evening Standard
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Hippo Has a Hat
Illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1405021920
“Lots of clothes! Let’s try them.
Maybe we can buy them.”
There’s chaos in the clothes shop when the animals go on a glorious shopping spree.
A simple rhyming picture book with extra tough pages for toddlers.
There is also a board book and Book and CD edition , with Michael Fenton-Stevens
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Shuffle and Squelch
Illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447276814
This is a companion to Wriggle and Roar and contains illustrated versions of the younger poems from Crazy Mayonnaisy Mum.
There is a book and CD edition with Justin Fletcher.
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Wriggle and Roar
– Rhymes to Join in with
illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1447276654
Whenever I’m tired of being me
I swing around like a chimpanzee.
Seventeen brightly illustrated rhymes which children can join in, either with noises or actions.
There is also a Big Book version and Book and CD edition , with Justin Fletcher
Shortlisted for the Early Years book award.
"This book will animate, engage and stimulate babies and have nursery classes jumping about with noisy enthusiasm." The Sunday Times (Book of the Week)
"the perfect way to tire out lively toddlers… It’s timeless, irresistible and will encourage our youngest readers to be book-lovers for ever." The Bookseller
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Conjuror Cow
illustrated by Nick Sharratt
Puffin,
isbn 978-0140568486
Everyone’s waiting,
The lights have gone low.
So open the curtains
And on with the show!
Conjuror Cow is putting on a magnificent magic show – but can she make a white rabbit jump out of a hat? Turn the special novelty pages and find out.
"an instant hit. My children love its bold, primary colours and its simple – deliberately faulty - magic." The Observer
Follow the Swallow
illustrated by Pam Smy
Egmont,
isbn 978-1405217880
Chack the blackbird is trying to get a message to Apollo the swallow. We follow dolphins, camels and crocodiles, under oceans and through deserts to help get the message across.
"A charmer of a story . . . an enchanting picture book, this is genuinely gripping because of the well-crafted story and warm pictures.” Independent
(This title is also available as a Blue Banana book, with illustrations by Martin Ursell. See Early Readers.)
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The Magic Paintbrush
illustrated by Joel Stewart
Macmillan,
isbn 978-1509830466
I order you to paint a tree
And make it very big.
Instead of leaves, paint golden coins -
A hundred on each twig.
When the greedy emperor hears about Shen’s magic brush, all he can think about is gold. How can a little village girl stand up to him?
"A beautiful book" The Observer
"The best recent picture book" The Daily Telegraph
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The Further Adventures of the Owl and the Pussy-cat
illustrated by Charlotte Voake
Puffin,
isbn 978-0141378275
This is a sequel to Edward Lear's favourite rhyme set in a nonsensical land full of adventure. When their beautiful golden ring is stolen, the Owl and the Pussy-cat must travel far from the safety of the Bong-tree glade as their search for the thief leads them across the Sea, to the Chankly Bore and beyond...
There is now a book and CD edition with me reading the story and singing the song. Puffin have now brought out a new edition of the original poem The Owl and the Pussy-cat, with illustrations by Charlotte Voake and an introduction by me.
Shortlisted for 2014 Bishop’s Stortford Picture Book Award and for the 2013 Specsavers British Book Award
“Donaldson has created an entertaining addition to Lear’s work, while Charlotte Voake breathes new life into some of his best-loved and most original creations” The Guardian
“Donaldson’s rhythm imitates Lear perfectly and captures his zaniness” The Sunday Times
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